Broaddus: Checking Out The Tape On LB Brady Poppinga

My Thoughts on the newest linebacker, Brady Poppinga, who played six years with the Packers from 2005-2010 and won a Super Bowl ring in Green Bay. He played 15 games, with 12 starts last season in St. Louis on a Rams defense that struggled against the run.

Games studied: Baltimore, Dallas, New York Giants, Washington

Viewed games from 2011 when he was with the St. Louis Rams.

Played in a 4-3 scheme as a strong side outside linebacker.

Good reactions and awareness. Will find the ball. No problem chasing play.

Will pick up the back or tight end in the flat when in coverage. Looked assignment sound.

Will play down the line in the running game. Will try and keep himself free to run to the ball.

Aggressive attacking the line but will give himself up one-on-one. Did see one play where he was clean on fill and had tackle for loss.

Not effective as a blitzer, when he did rush struggled to get pressure by freeing himself with moves. Got bounced in his attempts.

Thought overall game, he showed awareness but needed to finish plays better. Did see the one nice tackle for loss but not near enough of those.

Will get work on teams but will be interesting to see if he can really help like they are going to need him to.